Are you getting a free laptop from the government’s new scheme? If you have received such a message on WhatsApp, do not make this mistake even by mistake.

Nowadays, a message is becoming increasingly viral on WhatsApp, in which it is being claimed that the Government of India is giving free laptops to students under ‘National Student Laptop Scheme 2026’. Seeing this message, many people are considering it to be true, but PIB Fact Check has made it clear that this claim is completely fake.

It is being said in the viral message that students can apply for a free laptop by filling an online form. Along with this, a link is also sent, on clicking which information related to name, mobile number and sometimes bank is asked. In some cases, money is also demanded in the name of processing fee.

PIB Fact Check has told that the government has not started any such scheme. This is just a way to cheat people. In such scams, fraudsters try to win people’s trust by taking the name of government schemes. On clicking the link, the user reaches a fake website, which looks like a real government portal.

Hackers play with OTP
The information given there can be misused. Many times money is also withdrawn from the bank account by asking for OTP. Therefore, there is a need to be very careful with such messages.

If you also get such a message, do not trust it without checking. Always check information about any government scheme from the official website or trusted source only. Do not click on unknown links and do not share your personal information like bank details, OTP or Aadhaar number with anyone.

PIB Fact Check has appealed to the people not to forward such messages. If you find any suspicious message, report it and delete it immediately.

This WhatsApp scam running in the name of free laptop can harm people. Therefore, be alert and make others aware also. A little caution can save you from big trouble.